All the pros and cons of having a big brother

If you have an older brother who is anything like mine, then he can be extremely protective. Sometimes it might seem like he's *totally* cramping your style, but it also has some perks. Check out these pros and cons of having an older brother that every younger sister can relate to.

Pro: He's your personal bodyguard.
Since day one, your brother has watched over you. Sometimes you might have someone that is messing with you, being mean or just making you uncomfortable. One call to your big bro and it's all taken care of. He has mastered the art of intimidation and can get someone to leave you alone in a matter of seconds. Even if you don't need his help, it's very comforting to know you have someone who has your back and he's only a text away.

Con: He can be too intimidating.
A lot of times your older brother will scare boys away without you asking him to. That's great for the boys who would only hurt you anyway. The downside is that he scares the really nice boys away, too. It's hard enough for shy, nice guys to get the nerve to talk to you as it is—throw a hovering big bro into the mix and forget it. Try talking to him about giving you some space—he might give you a little, but don't expect him to go very far.

Pro: He has guy insight.
Boys can be *very* difficult to figure out and big brothers can be very helpful deciphering that tricky guy code. He knows what they're thinking (because he is one after all!), so it's like you have the inside scoop—pretty awesome, right? Now all you have to do is trust that he is steering you in the right direction and listen to him. Trust, he is only trying to help and he's going to be right in the end, so just skip the "I told you so" and take his advice.

Con: He thinks he knows best.
Brothers are always looking out for our best interests and that's great until he thinks he knows better than you do. My brother and I have often fought over what is best for me. While it's important to listen to his point of view, you're the one living your life, so you have to make your own decisions. You have to know when he's being helpful so you should listen and when he is overstepping into know-it-all territory.

Pro: He's your rock.
At some point in your life—probably more than once—you're going to go through a difficult situation where you don't know what to do or you're upset, or both. Your big bro will always be someone steady for you to fall back on. Whatever you need at the time, he'll be there and he is never going anywhere. He will always be your safe place to land and he'll help pick up the pieces when your heart gets broken.

Con: He can be overbearing.
My brother is *always* in my business and adding his opinion. A lot of the time that can be great, but he can get to the point of smothering me. Sometimes it can be hard to be independent with your brother around. He is always watching and throwing his advice and opinions at you. You have to be careful to not become too reliant on what he thinks. If you feel too smothered by your big bro's best intentions, just don't be afraid to speak up.

Pro: You're never alone.
It doesn't matter how much you two fight or disagree, he will *always* be in your corner. Whether it's a secret you need kept or a crazy plan you need to put into action, he's your guy. If you ever get to a point where everyone else has left you by yourself, which hopefully will never happen, you will never be truly alone as long as your brother is around. He might not understand all of the girl stuff you're dealing with, but he'll try to get it and he'll definitely try to help.

What do you love or hate about your big brother? Share your thoughts in the comments below!